Blast protected unit and system

ABSTRACT

A blast protected unit ( 100 ) for blast protection comprises: a protecting panel ( 14 ) having a first side ( 7 ) and a second side ( 8 ); a sub-frame ( 16 ) adapted to circumscribe said protecting panel ( 14 ); and a plurality of energy absorption units ( 30 ). The absorption units ( 30 ) are adapted to connect the sub-frame ( 16 ) to the protecting panel ( 14 ). Each of the energy absorption units ( 30 ) is connectable to the protecting panel ( 14 ) and the sub-frame ( 16 ), such that the aforementioned blast protected unit ( 100 ) is formed. The energy absorption units ( 30 ) are configured to deform under a blast force applied against the first side ( 7 ) of the protecting panel ( 14 ), allowing the protecting panel ( 14 ) to move away from and remain in proximity to the sub-frame ( 16 ). The blast protected unit ( 100 ) is adapted to be connected to a building structure, such that a protection from blasts is provided to the internal portion of said building structure, the internal portion being located at the second side ( 8 ) of the protecting panel ( 14 ).

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to a blast and ballistic protection of contents of an enclosed space, especially people and equipment against injury and damage caused by fragments of the window and the wall or blast overpressure, and more specifically, to a building construction which may be used for protection of said people and/or equipment.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Physical security for residents, soldiers, equipment, etc. is a growing concert. One such security concern is damage caused by explosions, such as bomb detonation, which may occur exterior to a structure. Another concern is a ballistic attack on the structure which may also occur.

Occupants of buildings subjected to explosive blasts risk the possibility of death or injury not only by the blast itself and primary projectiles set in motion by the blast, but also by projectiles which are originally part of the structure walls. These projectiles might be detached from the walls and accelerated inwards by the external shock wave. Thus, for example, in the case of prefabricated wall units of layers of sheetrock, masonry board or the like, conventionally fabricated with studs, sole plates, and top plates, a blast easily fragments the exterior and interior boards as the walls bend inward from the blast. The fragments become large projectiles, in many cases exceeding the destructive capacity of projectiles from the blast itself.

US patent application No. 2005/0144900 discloses blast resistant prefabricated wall panels contain at least one panel consisting of two structural boards having a thermoset resin-impregnated fiber reinforcing layer therebetween and extending from sides of the panel, the extension wrapped at least partially around metal sole and top plates of a metal sole plate, top plate, and stud construction. The panels are capable of resisting explosive blasts without forming secondary projectiles, and are preferably attached to a building structure by energy absorbing deformable brackets. The invention disclosed in this patent application is not portable, and therefore is not able to provide protection at a preselected location. Moreover, the structure of this invention is clumsy and requires thick walls.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,718,356 discloses a system for protecting exterior building walls against damage from pressure waves generated by explosions on the building exterior. Exterior walls are constructed of multiple wall panels mounted in a circumferential framework of building elements formed by columns, a top surface of the floor below the wall and bottom surface of the floor above the wall. A series of guide tracks mounted in the circumferential surfaces extend perpendicular to the wall panel towards the interior of the building. Guide blocks on the perimeter of the wall panel engage the guide tracks so that the wall panel can slidably move along the tracks when a predetermined threshold force is applied to the exterior of the panel. An adjustable brake, on cooperating with the guide blocks and tracks, permits an accurate setting of the threshold force under which inward movement of the panel commences as well as the relatively constant force that acts during sliding. This invention is also limited by its clumsy construction and it luck of portability which might be very important in specific situations.

US patent application 2006/0032160 discloses a blast resistant window blind system which includes a blind system. The blind system comprises: a plurality of parallel blind slats, a plurality of spaced pane engaging members, and first and second mounting bodies coupled to the pane engaging members and anchor members disposed at first and second opposite ends of said opening, wherein the pane engaging members are secured to the mounting bodies and coupled thereby to the structure. At least one energy dampening device is coupled to the pane engaging members, allowing the pane engaging members to extend a selected amount toward the inside of the structure upon impact of the window pane, wherein the blind system and pane engaging members cooperate to restrain the window pane from being blown into the inside of the structure and conform to the inside surface of the window pane during impact therewith to distribute the restraining force across the window pane. The invention disclosed in this patent application is directed to blast protection of windows (and not walls), so that in cases of massive blast event, this system will not be stable to protect the interior of a structure. For example, the protective layer of the system (the vertical blind slats) and the energy absorption units (the tensioning springs) cannot provide blast and ballistic protection from massive blasts characterized by an impulse of a magnitude of hundreds of si.msec. Moreover, this system is non-adjustable, and therefore is not able to provide protection to any existing area of a wall and/or a window.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,212,840 discloses a retrofit method for protecting the contents of a structure having walls and window frames in the walls in the event of a blast outside the structure. The method is effected by (a) providing a flexible and stretchable woven sheet including strands of ballistic thread; (b) attaching a first portion of the flexible and stretchable woven sheet via a flexible adhesive to an inward-facing surface of at least one wall of the structure; and (c) attaching a second portion of the flexible and stretchable woven sheet to at least one window frame in the at least one wall; the flexible and stretchable woven sheet and the flexible adhesive being capable of stretching under impact of the blast, thereby reducing disintegration of the at least one wall and securing the window frame in the wall upon the blast, preventing fragments from the wall and the window frame from being thrown into an interior of the structure by the blast.

The system of U.S. Pat. No. 6,212,840 is limited to protection of windows only, and is not able to provide protection in case of massive blast events (e.g., 1000 psi.msec.). This system does not comprise energy absorbing units which are able to absorb massive energy impulses delivered through elongated members. As seen in FIG. 6 of this patent, a blast event with a relatively weak impulse of 65 si.msec., dislocates the system and disassembles it. Moreover, this system is also non-adjustable, and therefore is not able to provide protection to any existing area of a wall and/or a window.

It would be desirable to provide a lightweight building construction with blast and ballistic protected walls and with energy absorption units which may absorb the energy of the blast and/or the ballistic attack. This building construction should also be easy for construction in any preselected location by a person not skilled in constructing building construction (e.g., with foldable parts, portable, etc.), and preferably will have a look of a standard and simple building construction. Moreover, this building construction should also be relocateable, transportable, portable, permanent, fixed to a specific construction, modular, easy for construction by a layman, and of course blast and/or ballistic protected. Moreover, it would be desirable to provide a lightweight and easy for installation blast protecting system which will be stable to massive blast impulses. This system should be easy for installation in any preselected location by unskilled personnel. Moreover, this system should be adjustable to a variety of dimensions in order to provide protection to any existing wall of any size (e.g., characterized by height of between about 100 cm to about 10 meter). Furthermore, this system should also be reliable, relocateable, replaceable, upgradable, transportable, lightweight, modular, and of course blast and/or ballistic protected.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is one object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit for blast protection. The blast protected unit comprises:

-   -   a. a protecting panel having a first side and a second side;         and,     -   b. a sub-frame adapted to circumscribe the protecting panel;         and,     -   c. a plurality of energy absorption units adapted to connect the         sub-frame to the protecting panel, each of the energy absorption         units having a first end and a second end, the first end of each         of the energy absorption units being connectable to the         protecting panel, and the second end of each of the energy         absorption units being connectable to the sub-frame, such that         the blast protected unit is formed; the energy absorption units         are configured to deform under a blast force applied against the         first side of the protecting panel, allowing the protecting         panel to move away from and remain in proximity to the         sub-frame;

It is within the scope of the present invention that the blast protected unit is adapted to be connected to a building structure, such that a protection from blasts is provided to the internal portion of the building structure, the internal portion is located at the second side of the protecting panel.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the building structure is a framework having a plurality of shafts mechanically connected to each other such that at least one opening is formed, the blast protected unit is adapted to be fitted, placed and connected to the at least one opening.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is adapted to replace a wall, a ceiling, or a floor of the building structure or the framework.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the framework is configurable into two configurations: (i) a folded configuration in which the framework is transportable; and (ii) an unfolded configuration in which the framework is arranged in an operative position.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit with the energy absorption units in a deformed state after a blast is replaceable so as to provide protection to the internal portion of the building structure from additional blasts.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is adapted to provide protection from blasts at any preselected location in which the building structure is located.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the energy absorption units are adapted to be positioned between the panel and the sub-frame in a hidden manner so as to provide an appearance of a regular non-protected blast protected unit.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the hidden manner is adapted to hide from external observers the capabilities of the blast protected unit to provide protection from blasts.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is configurable into at least two configurations: (i) a disassembled configuration in which the blast protected unit is transportable; and, (ii) an assembled configuration in which the blast protected unit is connected to the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the building structure is adapted to be protected with a plurality of the blast protected units.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit has characteristics selected from the group consisting of: relocateable, transportable, portable, permanent, fixed to a specific construction, modular, ease of construction, kit-like, expandable, rapidly deployable, lightweight, replaceable, upgradable, blast protected, blast and ballistic protected, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is further adapted to protect the building structure from a factor selected from the group consisting of: wind, tornado, hurricane, earthquake, a weather related conditions, a ballistic attack, any pushing force, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the panel is made of at least one material selected from the group consisting of: phenolic foam, polyurea foam, glass fibers, polyetheline fibers, carbon fibers, aramid fibers, Polystyrene, plastic foam, rockwool, composite materials, a lightweight building material, and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the panel is characterized by a characteristic selected from the group consisting of: fluid isolating, moisture isolating, noise isolating, thermally isolating, fireproof, with ballistic protection properties, flexible, energy absorbing, lightweight, prefabricated, variable stiffness, resilient, and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the panel comprises an anti spall layer adapted to prevent spalls from being projected into the building structure in case of a blast.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the panel comprises a ballistic layer adapted to provide ballistic protection to the content within the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the sub-frame is adapted to hold the anti spall layer or the ballistic layer.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the sub-frame is connectable to the building structure via a screw means or any fastening means.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the building structure is selected from the group consisting of: a container, a caravan, manner a permanent structure with walls, a framework, an office, an industrial facility, a hotel, a residence, an embassy, and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is connectable to the wall, the ceiling, or the floor of the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is connectable to at least one another blast protected unit so as to provide a frameless structure, the connection between the blast protected units is provided by mechanical connection of the sub-frames of the blast protected units to each other.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is stable to a blast impulse of between about 50 psi.msec to about 600 psi.msec. and blast pressures in excess of 1500 psi.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the energy absorption units are configured to withstand multiple numbers of blasts.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is adapted to be used as a pre-detonating unit adapted to at least partially mitigate impact of a ballistic attack on the building structure, the blast protected unit is connectable to the building structure via at least one connecting shaft at a predetermined distance from the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the panel is adapted to be disconnected from the sub-frame when a predetermined level of blast occurs, so as to prevent damage or collapse of the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the building construction further comprises at least blast protecting system connected to the same.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protected unit as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is adapted to be connected to an external portion or an opening of the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction for blast protection. The building construction comprises:

-   -   a. a building structure having at least one opening;     -   b. at least one blast protected unit, comprises:         -   i. a protecting panel having a first side and a second side;         -   ii. a sub-frame adapted to circumscribe the protecting             panel, the sub-frame is adapted to be fitted to at least one             of the openings; and,         -   iii. a plurality of energy absorption units adapted to             connect the sub-frame to the protecting panel, each of the             energy absorption units having a first end and a second end,             the first end of each of the energy absorption units being             connectable to the protecting panel, and the second end of             each of the energy absorption units being connectable to the             sub-frame, such that the blast protected unit is formed; the             energy absorption units are configured to deform under a             blast force applied against the first side of the protecting             panel, allowing the protecting panel to move away from and             remain in proximity to the sub-frame;

It is within the scope of the present invention that the at least one blast protected unit is adapted to be seated and connected to at least one of opening, such that a protection from blasts is provided to the internal portion of the building structure, the internal portion is located at the second side of the protecting panel.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the building structure is a framework having a plurality of shafts mechanically connected to each other such that the openings are formed.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is adapted to replace a wall, a ceiling, or a floor of the building structure or the framework

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the framework is configurable into two configurations: (i) a folded configuration in which the framework is transportable; and (ii) an unfolded configuration in which the framework is arranged in an operative position.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the at least one blast protected unit with the energy absorption units in a deformed state after a blast is replaceable so as to provide protection to the internal portion of the building structure from additional blasts.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the at least one blast protected unit is adapted to provide protection from blasts at any preselected location in which the building structure is located.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the energy absorption units are adapted to be positioned between the panel and the sub-frame in a hidden manner so as to provide an appearance of a regular non-protected blast protected unit.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the hidden manner is adapted to hide from external observers the capabilities of the blast protected unit to provide protection from blasts.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the at least one blast protected unit is configurable into at least two configurations: (i) a disassembled configuration in which the blast protected unit is transportable; and, (ii) an assembled configuration in which the blast protected unit is connected to the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the building structure is adapted to be protected with a plurality of the blast protected units.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the at least one blast protected unit has characteristics selected from the group consisting of: relocateable, transportable, portable, permanent, fixed to a specific construction, modular, ease of construction, kit-like, expandable, rapidly deployable, lightweight, replaceable, upgradable, blast protected, blast and ballistic protected, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the at least one blast protected unit is further adapted to protect the building structure from a factor selected from the group consisting of: wind, tornado, hurricane, earthquake, a weather related conditions, a ballistic attack, any pushing force, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the panel is made of at least one material selected from the group consisting of:

phenolic foam, polyurea foam, glass fibers, polyetheline fibers, carbon fibers, aramid fibers, Polystyrene, plastic foam, rockwool, composite materials, a lightweight building material, and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the panel is characterized by a characteristic selected from the group consisting of: fluid isolating, moisture isolating, noise isolating, thermally isolating, fireproof, with ballistic protection properties, flexible, energy absorbing, lightweight, prefabricated, variable stiffness, resilient, and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the panel comprises an anti spall layer adapted to prevent spalls from being projected into the building structure in case of a blast.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the panel comprises a ballistic layer adapted to provide ballistic protection to the content within the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the sub-frame is adapted to hold the anti spall layer or the ballistic layer.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the sub-frame is connectable to the building structure via a screw means or any fastening means.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the building structure is selected from the group consisting of: a container, a caravan, manner a permanent structure with walls, a framework, an office, an industrial facility, a hotel, a residence, an embassy, and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the at least one blast protected unit is connectable to the walls, the ceiling, or the floor of the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the at least one blast protected unit is connectable to another at least one blast protected unit so as to provide a frameless structure, the connection between the blast protected units is provided by mechanical connection of the sub-frames of the blast protected units to each other.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is stable to a blast impulse of between about 50 psi.msec to about 600 psi.msec. and blast pressures in excess of 1500 psi.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the energy absorption units are configured to withstand multiple numbers of blasts.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the at least one blast protected unit is adapted to be used as a pre-detonating unit adapted to at least partially mitigate impact of a ballistic attack on the building structure, the blast protected unit is connectable to the building structure via at least one connecting shaft at a predetermined distance from the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the panel is adapted to be disconnected from the sub-frame when a predetermined level of blast occurs, so as to prevent collapse or damage of the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the building construction further comprises at least blast protecting system connected to the same.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a building construction as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is adapted to be connected to an external portion or an opening of the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure for blast protection. The frameless structure comprises a plurality of blast protected units each of which comprises:

-   -   a. a protecting panel having a first side and a second side;         and,     -   b. a sub-frame adapted to circumscribe the protecting panel;         and,     -   c. a plurality of energy absorption units adapted to connect the         sub-frame to the protecting panel, each of the energy absorption         units having a first end and a second end, the first end of each         of the energy absorption units being connectable to the         protecting panel, and the second end of each of the energy         absorption units being connectable to the sub-frame, such that         the blast protected unit is formed; the energy absorption units         are configured to deform under a blast force applied against the         first side of the protecting panel, allowing the protecting         panel to move away from and remain in proximity to the         sub-frame;

It is within the scope of the present invention that the blast protected units are adapted to be connected to each other so as to provide the frameless structure, such that the internal portion of the frameless structure is protected from blasts, the internal portion is located at the second side of the protecting panel.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is adapted to replace a wall, a ceiling, or a floor of the building structure or the framework.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein at least of the blast protected units with the energy absorption units in a deformed state after a blast is replaceable so as to provide protection to the internal portion of the building structure from additional blasts.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein the blast protected units is adapted to provide protection from blasts at any preselected location in which the frameless structure is located.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein the energy absorption units are adapted to be positioned between the panel and the sub-frame in a hidden manner so as to provide an appearance of a regular non-protected blast protected units.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein the hidden manner is adapted to hide from external observers the capabilities of the blast protected units to provide protection from blasts.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein the blast protected units are configurable into at least two configurations: (i) a disassembled configuration in which the blast protected units are transportable; and, (ii) an assembled configuration in which the blast protected units are connected to each other.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein the blast protected units have characteristics selected from the group consisting of: relocateable, transportable, portable, permanent, fixed to a specific construction, modular, ease of construction, kit-like, expandable, rapidly deployable, lightweight, replaceable, upgradable, blast protected, blast and ballistic protected, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein the blast protected units are further adapted to protect the building structure from a factor selected from the group consisting of: wind, tornado, hurricane, earthquake, a weather related conditions, a ballistic attack, any pushing force, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein the panel is made of at least one material selected from the group consisting of: phenolic foam, polyurea foam, glass fibers, polyetheline fibers, carbon fibers, aramid fibers, Polystyrene, plastic foam, rockwool, composite materials, a lightweight building material, and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein the panel is characterized by a characteristic selected from the group consisting of: fluid isolating, moisture isolating, noise isolating, thermally isolating, fireproof, with ballistic protection properties, flexible, energy absorbing, lightweight, prefabricated, variable stiffness, resilient, and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein the panel comprises an anti spall layer adapted to prevent spalls from being projected into the frameless structure in case of a blast.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein the panel comprises a ballistic layer adapted to provide ballistic protection to the content within the frameless structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein the sub-frame is adapted to hold the anti spall layer or the ballistic layer.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein the sub-frame is connectable to the building structure via a screw means or any fastening means.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein the building structure is selected from the group consisting of: a container, a caravan, manner a permanent structure with walls, a framework, an office, an industrial facility, a hotel, a residence, an embassy, and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein the blast protected units are stable to a blast impulse of between about 50 psi.msec to about 600 psi.msec. and blast pressures in excess of 1500 psi.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein the energy absorption units are configured to withstand multiple numbers of blasts.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein at least one blast protected unit is adapted to be used as a pre-detonating unit adapted to at least partially mitigate impact of a ballistic attack on the frameless structure, the additional blast protected unit is connectable to the building structure via at least one connecting shaft at a predetermined distance from the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein the panel is adapted to be disconnected from the sub-frame when a predetermined level of blast occurs, so as to prevent collapse or damage of the frameless structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a frameless structure as defined above, wherein the frameless structure further comprises at least blast protecting system connected to the same.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system for protection of an interior of a building structure. The blast protecting system comprises:

-   -   a. first and second energy absorption units adapted to be         connected to the building structure;     -   b. a plurality of spaced elongated elements having a first and a         second end, each first end of the elongated elements is         mechanically connectable to the first energy absorption unit,         and each second end of the elongated elements is mechanically         connectable to the second energy absorption unit; and,     -   c. at least one protecting layer mechanically connectable to the         first and the second energy absorption units;

It is within the scope of the present invention that the energy absorption units are configured to be deformed under a force applied against the elongated elements and the at least one protecting layer, such that the energy created by a blast is at least partially absorbed by the energy absorption units via the elongated elements.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the elongated elements and the at least one protecting layer are dimensionally adjustable to fit to the dimensions of a portion of the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the dimensions of the system are the distance between the first and the second energy absorption units.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the distance is between about 100 cm and about 10 meter.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the dimensions of the at least one protecting layer are adjustable by a characteristic selected from a group consisting of: elongatability, stretchability, elasticity, extendibility, enlargability, ability to spread out when provided in a rolled condition, cutting, slicing, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the system is adapted to be installed in front of and substantially adjacent to a portion of the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the blast protecting system is adapted to cover the entire area of a wall by adjusting the distance between the first and the second energy absorption units to the height of the wall, and installing at least one protecting layer of the blast protecting system to cover the entire width of the wall.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the portion of the building structure is selected from the group consisting of: a wall, a floor, a ceiling, and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the building structure is selected from a group consisting of: a room, a building construction, a lodge, a house, a cabin, a caravan, a vehicle, a framework, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the first energy absorption unit is adapted to be connected to the ceiling of the building structure, and the second energy absorption unit is adapted to be connected to the floor of the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the at least one protecting layer comprises an anti-spall layer to prevent spalls from being projected into the structure in case of a blast.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the at least one protecting layer comprises a ballistic layer to provide ballistic protection to the content within the structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the at least one protecting layer comprises two protecting layers: the anti-spall layer and the anti ballistic layer.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the at least one protecting layer comprises a protecting panel.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the at least one protecting layer is made of materials selected from a group consisting of: phenolic foam, polyurea foam fabric, glass fibers, carbon fibers, polyethylene fibers aramid fibers, Polystyrene, plastic foam, rockwool, composite materials, a lightweight material that can be used for construction of prefabricated structures, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the at least one protecting layer is made of materials characterized by a characteristic selected from a group consisting of: fluid isolating, moisture isolating, noise isolating, thermally isolating, fireproof, with ballistic protection properties, flexible, energy absorbing, lightweight, prefabricated, variable stiffness, resilient, translucent, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the elongated elements are characterized by a characteristic selected from a group consisting of: elongateble, stretchable, extendable, enlargeable, telescopic, inelastic, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the elongated elements are selected from a group consisting of: rods, pipes, bars, mesh, shafts, sticks, cables, cords, ropes, string, wires, threads, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the first and the second energy absorption units comprise an array of energy absorption sub-units located between a first and a second connecting profile, the first connecting profile is adapted to interconnect the energy absorption sub-units with the elongated elements and the at least one protecting layer, the second connecting profile is adapted to interconnect the energy absorption sub-units with the structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the blast protecting system is stable to a blast impulse of between about 50 psi.msec to about 600 psi.msec. and blast pressures in excess of 1500 psi.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the blast protecting system has characteristics selected from a group consisting of: relocateable, transportable, portable, fixed to the construction, modular, ease of installation, kit-like, provided in a rolled kit, replaceable, upgradable, expandable, rapidly deployable, easy for installation by a layman, lightweight, blast protected, blast and ballistic protected, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the first and the second energy absorption units are connectable to the building structure via screw means or any convenient fastening means.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the energy absorption units are configured to withstand multiple numbers of blasts.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the elongated elements are substantially parallel to each other.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a blast protecting system as defined above, wherein the force applied against the elongated elements and the at least one protecting layer is at least partially selected from a group consisting of: a force of a wind, a tornado generated force, a hurricane generated force, a force generated by an earthquake, a weather related force, any other pushing force, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method for constructing a blast protected building construction. The method comprises steps of:

-   -   a. providing a building structure having at least one opening;     -   b. providing at least one blast protected unit, comprises: (i) a         protecting panel having a first side and a second side; (ii) a         sub-frame adapted to circumscribe the protecting panel, the         sub-frame is adapted to be fitted to at least one of the         openings; and, (iii) a plurality of energy absorption units         adapted to connect the sub-frame to the protecting panel, each         of the energy absorption units having a first end and a second         end, the first end of each of the energy absorption units being         connectable to the protecting panel, and the second end of each         of the energy absorption units being connectable to the         sub-frame, such that the blast protected unit is formed; the         energy absorption units are configured to deform under a blast         force applied against the first side of the protecting panel,         allowing the protecting panel to move away from and remain in         proximity to the sub-frame;     -   c. placing the at least one blast protected unit within the at         least one opening; and,     -   d. connecting the at least one blast protected unit to the at         least one opening, thereby providing protection from blasts to         the internal portion of the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, further comprises a step of providing the building structure as a framework having a plurality of shafts mechanically connected to each other such that the at least one opening is formed.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is adapted to replace a wall, a ceiling, or a floor of the building structure or the framework

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, further comprises a step of reconfiguring the building structure into two configurations: (i) a folded configuration in which the building structure is transportable; and (ii) an unfolded configuration in which the building structure is arranged in an operative position.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, further comprises a step of replacing the at least one blast protected unit after a blast, thereby providing protection to the internal portion of the building structure from additional blasts.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, further comprises a step of placing the building structure at any preselected location, thereby providing protection from blasts at the preselected location.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, further comprises a step of positioning the energy absorption units between the panel and the sub-frame in a hidden manner thereby providing an appearance of a regular non-protected blast protected unit.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, wherein the hidden manner is adapted to hide from external observers the capabilities of the blast protected unit to provide protection from blasts.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, further comprises a step of configuring the blast protected unit into at least two configurations: (i) a disassembled configuration in which the blast protected unit is transportable; and, (ii) an assembled configuration in which the blast protected unit is connected to the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, further comprises a step of protecting the building structure with a plurality of the blast protected units.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, wherein the at least one blast protected unit has characteristics selected from the group consisting of: relocateable, transportable, portable, permanent, fixed to a specific construction, modular, ease of construction, kit-like, expandable, rapidly deployable, lightweight, replaceable, upgradable, blast protected, blast and ballistic protected, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, wherein the at least one blast protected unit is further adapted to protect the building structure from a factor selected from the group consisting of: wind, tornado, hurricane, earthquake, a weather related conditions, a ballistic attack, any pushing force, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, further comprises a step of making the panel from a material selected from the group consisting of: phenolic foam, polyurea foam glass fibers, carbon fibers, aramid fibers, polyethylene fibers Polystyrene, plastic foam, rockwool, composite materials, a lightweight building material, and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, wherein the panel is characterized by a characteristic selected from the group consisting of: fluid isolating, moisture isolating, noise isolating, thermally isolating, fireproof, with ballistic protection properties, flexible, energy absorbing, lightweight, prefabricated, variable stiffness, resilient, and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, further comprises a step of providing the panel with an anti spall layer adapted to prevent spalls from being projected into the building structure in case of a blast.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, further comprises a step of providing the panel with a ballistic layer adapted to provide ballistic protection to the content within the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, further comprises a step of holding the anti spall layer or the ballistic layer via the sub-frame.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, wherein the step of connecting the at least one blast protected unit to the at least one opening is performed via a screw means or any fastening means.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, further comprises a step of selecting the building structure from the group consisting of: a container, a caravan, manner a permanent structure with walls, a framework, an office, an industrial facility, a hotel, a residence, an embassy, and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, wherein the at least one blast protected unit is connectable to the walls, the ceiling, or the floor of the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, further comprises a step of connecting the at least one blast protected unit is to another at least one blast protected unit, thereby providing a frameless structure, the connection between the blast protected units is provided by mechanical connection of the sub-frames of the blast protected units to each other.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is stable to a blast impulse of between about 50 psi.msec to about 600 psi.msec. and blast pressures in excess of 1500 psi.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, wherein the energy absorption units are configured to withstand multiple numbers of blasts.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, wherein the at least one blast protected unit is adapted to be used as a pre-detonating unit adapted to at least partially mitigate impact of a ballistic attack on the building structure, the blast protected unit is connectable to the building structure via at least one connecting shaft at a predetermined distance from the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, wherein the panel is adapted to be disconnected from the sub-frame when a predetermined level of blast occurs, so as to prevent collapse or damage of the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, wherein the building construction further comprises at least blast protecting system connected to the same.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is adapted to be connected to an external portion or an opening of the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, further comprises a step of deploying the building structure in a theatre of operation, thereby providing protection from blasts to predetermined objects.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, wherein the objects are selected from a group consisting of: military forces, police forces, soldiers, first-aid crew, press crew, military equipment, electronic equipment, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, wherein the theatre of operations is selected from a group consisting of: a hostile environment, a battlefield, a city, a village, in a mountainous area, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, wherein the building structure is adapted to be deployed in the theatre of operations for providing protection to the objects in a time of between about 10 minutes and about two hours.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, wherein the step of providing the building construction is performed to from high altitude via transporting means selected from a group consisting of: an airplane, a jet plane, a helicopter, a crane, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method as defined above, further comprises a step of connecting the building construction to another building construction, thereby constructing an enlarged building construction

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure, comprises steps of:

-   -   a. providing protecting panel having a first side and a second         side;     -   b. providing a sub-frame adapted to circumscribe the protecting         panel;     -   c. providing a plurality of energy absorbing units, each of the         energy absorption units having a first end and a second end;     -   d. connecting the first end of each of the energy absorption         units to the protecting panel;     -   e. connecting the second end of each of the energy absorption         units to the sub-frame, thereby connecting the panel to the         sub-frame and providing the blast protected unit;

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the energy absorption units are configured to deform under a blast force applied against the first side of the protecting panel, allowing the protecting panel to move away from and remain in proximity to the sub-frame;

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is adapted to be connected to a building structure, such that a protection from blasts is provided to the internal portion of the building structure, the internal portion is located at the second side of the protecting panel.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is adapted to provide protection from blasts at any preselected location in which the building structure is located.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the energy absorption units are adapted to be positioned between the panel and the sub-frame in a hidden manner so as to provide an appearance of a regular non-protected blast protected unit.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the hidden manner is adapted to hide from external observers the capabilities of the blast protected unit to provide protection from blasts.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is configurable into at least two configurations: (i) a disassembled configuration in which the blast protected unit is transportable; and, (ii) an assembled configuration in which the blast protected unit is connected to the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is further adapted to protect the building structure from a factor selected from the group consisting of: wind, tornado, hurricane, earthquake, a weather related conditions, a ballistic attack, any pushing force, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the panel is made of at least one material selected from the group consisting of: phenolic foam, Polyurea foam glass fibers, carbon fibers, aramid fibers, polyethylene fibers, Polystyrene, plastic foam, rockwool, composite materials, a lightweight building material, and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the panel is characterized by a characteristic selected from the group consisting of: fluid isolating, moisture isolating, noise isolating, thermally isolating, fireproof, with ballistic protection properties, flexible, energy absorbing, lightweight, prefabricated, variable stiffness, resilient, and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the panel comprises an anti spall layer adapted to prevent spalls from being projected into the building structure in case of a blast.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the panel comprises a ballistic layer adapted to provide ballistic protection to the content within the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is connectable to the wall, the ceiling, or the floor of the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is stable to a blast impulse of between about 50 psi.msec to about 600 psi.msec. and blast pressures in excess of 1500 psi.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the energy absorption units are configured to withstand multiple numbers of blasts.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is adapted to be used as a pre-detonating unit adapted to at least partially mitigate impact of a ballistic attack on the building structure, the blast protected unit is connectable to the building structure via at least one connecting shaft at a predetermined distance from the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the panel is adapted to be disconnected from the sub-frame when a predetermined level of blast occurs, so as to prevent damage or collapse of the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the building construction further comprises at least blast protecting system connected to the same.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the blast protected unit is adapted to be connected to an external portion or an opening of the building structure.

A method for protecting an interior of a building structure, comprises steps of:

-   -   a. providing a blast protecting system, comprises: (i) first and         second energy absorption units adapted to be connected to the         building structure; (ii) a plurality of spaced elongated         elements having a first and a second end, each first end of the         elongated elements is mechanically connectable to the first         energy absorption unit, and each second end of the elongated         elements is mechanically connectable to the second energy         absorption unit; and, (iii) at least one protecting layer         mechanically connectable to the first and the second energy         absorption units; the energy absorption units are configured to         be deformed under a force applied against the elongated elements         and the at least one protecting layer, such that the energy         created by a blast is at least partially absorbed by the energy         absorption units via the elongated elements;     -   b. connecting the first energy absorption unit to the building         structure;     -   c. connecting the second energy absorption unit to the building         structure;     -   d. providing protection from blasts to the building structure in         the area covered by the blast protecting system;

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, further comprises a step of pulling the second energy absorption unit to a predetermined distance from the first energy absorbing unit, and thereby adjusting the dimensions of the elongated elements and the at least one protecting layer.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the elongated elements and the at least one protecting layer are dimensionally adjustable to fit to the dimensions of a portion of the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the dimensions of the system are the distance between the first and the second energy absorption units.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the distance is between about 100 cm and about 10 meter.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the dimensions of the at least one protecting layer are adjustable by a characteristic selected from a group consisting of: elongatability, stretchability, elasticity, extendibility, enlargability, ability to spread out when provided in a rolled condition, cutting, slicing, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the blast protecting system is adapted to be installed in front of and substantially adjacent to a portion of the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the blast protecting system is adapted to cover the entire area of a wall by adjusting the distance between the first and the second energy absorption units to the height of the wall, and installing at least one protecting layer of the blast protecting system to cover the entire width of the wall.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the portion of the building structure is selected from the group consisting of: a wall, a floor, a ceiling, and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the first energy absorption unit is adapted to be connected to the ceiling of the building structure, and the second energy absorption unit is adapted to be connected to the floor of the building structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the at least one protecting layer comprises an anti-spall layer to prevent spalls from being projected into the structure in case of a blast.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the at least one protecting layer comprises a ballistic layer to provide ballistic protection to the content within the structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the at least one protecting layer comprises two protecting layers: the anti-spall layer and the anti ballistic layer.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the at least one protecting layer comprises a protecting panel.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the at least one protecting layer is made of materials selected from a group consisting of: phenolic foam, Polyurea foam, fabric, glass fibers, carbon fibers, aramid fibers, polyethylene fibers Polystyrene, plastic foam, rockwool, composite materials, a lightweight material that can be used for construction of prefabricated structures, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the at least one protecting layer is made of materials characterized by a characteristic selected from a group consisting of: fluid isolating, moisture isolating, noise isolating, thermally isolating, fireproof, with ballistic protection properties, flexible, energy absorbing, lightweight, prefabricated, variable stiffness, resilient, translucent, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the elongated elements are characterized by a characteristic selected from a group consisting of: elongateble, stretchable, extendable, enlargeable, telescopic, inelastic, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the elongated elements are selected from a group consisting of: rods, pipes, bars, mesh, shafts, sticks, cables, cords, ropes, string, wires, threads, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the first and the second energy absorption units comprise an array of energy absorption sub-units located between a first and a second connecting profile, the first connecting profile is adapted to interconnect the energy absorption sub-units with the elongated elements and the at least one protecting layer, the second connecting profile is adapted to interconnect the energy absorption sub-units with the structure.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the blast protecting system is stable to a blast impulse of between about 50 psi.msec to about 600 psi.msec. and blast pressures in excess of 1500 psi.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the blast protecting system has characteristics selected from a group consisting of: relocateable, transportable, portable, fixed to the construction, modular, ease of installation, kit-like, provided in a rolled kit, replaceable, upgradable, expandable, rapidly deployable, easy for installation by a layman, lightweight, blast protected, blast and ballistic protected, or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the first and the second energy absorption units are connectable to the building structure via screw means or any convenient fastening means.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the energy absorption units are configured to withstand multiple numbers of blasts.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the elongated elements are substantially parallel to each other.

It is another object of the present invention to disclose a method of manufacturing a blast protected unit connectable to a building structure as defined above, wherein the force applied against the elongated elements and the at least one protecting layer is at least partially selected from a group consisting of: a force of a wind, a tornado generated force, a hurricane generated force, a force generated by an earthquake, a weather related force, any other pushing force, or any combination thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, purely by way of example, to the accompanying drawings in which like numerals designate corresponding elements or sections throughout.

With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present invention only, and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the invention may be embodied in practice. In the accompanying drawings:

FIG. 1 is a specific embodiment of the blast protecting unit of the present invention;

FIGS. 2 a-b are a section view and an plan view of the blast protecting unit the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a specific embodiment of a building structure which is a framework according to a specific embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates the method in which the building construction of the present invention is configurable into at least two configurations;

FIGS. 5 a-d illustrate specific embodiments of the building construction of the present invention in its assembled configuration from different points of view.

FIG. 6 is an exemplary illustration of a fragment of the building construction before a blast event;

FIG. 7 is an exemplary illustration of another fragment of the building construction before a blast event;

FIG. 8 is an exemplary illustration of a fragment of the building construction from FIG. 6, after being exposed to an experimental blast event;

FIG. 9 presents the energy absorption units of the present invention in their deformed state following a blast event, as presented in FIG. 8 from another point of view;

FIG. 10 presents the energy absorption units of the present invention in their deformed state following a blast event, as presented in FIGS. 8-9 from the interior of the building construction of the present invention;

FIG. 11 schematically illustrates the building construction of the present invention in its specific embodiment;

FIG. 12 schematically illustrates the building construction of the present invention with two pre-detonating blast protecting units;

FIG. 13 schematically illustrates a large building construction which is constructed from three building constructions of the present invention;

FIG. 14 schematically illustrates a frameless structure according to a specific embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a schematic illustration of a specific embodiment of the blast protecting system of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a schematic illustration of a section view of the blast protection system of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a schematic illustration of a plan view of the blast protection system of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is an exemplary illustration of a specific embodiment of the present invention which was installed within an existing structure;

FIG. 19 is an exemplary illustration of a specific embodiment of the present invention which was installed within an existing structure, from the interior side of the structure;

FIG. 20 is an exemplary illustration of a specific embodiment of the present invention which was installed within an existing structure, after a blast event, from the interior side of the structure; and,

FIG. 21 is an exemplary illustration of a specific embodiment of the present invention which was installed within an existing structure, after a blast event, from the exterior side of the structure;

The drawings together with the description make apparent to those skilled in the art how the invention may be embodied in practice.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is applicable to other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

The term ‘blast’ refers hereinafter to any event which may actuate a predetermined force on a static object (e.g., on a protecting panel). According to some embodiments, the term blast may refer to a strong current of air which is a result of an explosion. According to other embodiments, the term blast may refer to a ballistic attack on a static object. According to other embodiments, the term blast may refer to a combination of an explosion and a ballistic event. According to different embodiments, the term ‘blast’ refers hereinafter to any type of known in the art attack which may be performed on a static or any other object. According to different embodiments, the term blast may refer to one of the following: blast pressure; small-medium calibre projectiles; ballistic fragments; or any combination thereof. According to some embodiments, the blast pressure may be an explosive against 3250 lbs TNT. According to other embodiments, the small-medium calibre projectiles may be ballistic attacks of about 5.56 to about 7.62 mm Assault Rifle projectiles. According to other embodiments, the ballistic fragments may be fragments of rockets, artillery and mortars casings.

The term ‘energy absorption unit’ refers hereinafter to a deformable unit (e.g. a metal unit) which is adapted to absorb the energy that causes its deformation, and compensates this deformation by changing its physical dimensions.

The term ‘shaft’ refers hereinafter to rod, pole, column, bar, level, pale, roost, balk, beam, girder, flitch, rafter, or any combination thereof.

The term ‘constructed’ refers hereinafter to any method of erecting or assembling a building, temporary or permanent.

The term ‘anti spall’ refers hereinafter to an anti spalling layer which is adapted to prevent spalls from being projected into said building construction in case of a blast

The term ‘hidden manner’ refers hereinafter to any conventional method or means for ensuring that the energy absorption units do not substantially protrude beyond the building structure of the present invention. For example, this term may refer to a manner in which the energy absorbing units are not visible to the eye.

The term ‘pre-detonating’ refers hereinafter to any effect which may to cause a detonation of any attacking object (e.g., indirect fire, a rocket, a mortar shell, a missile, etc.) at a predetermined distance from the building construction of the present invention, such that the results of the attack on said building construction are mitigated.

The term ‘frameless structure’ refers hereinafter to a structure which may be assembled merely from blast protected units without the need the use a framework or any other building structure, so as to provide a space which is protected from blasts.

The term ‘building structure’ refers hereinafter to any known in the art building structure such as a house, a room, a lodge, a house, a cabin, a caravan, a vehicle, or any other known in the art structure in which people and/or object may be located.

The term ‘blast protecting unit’ is a building unit which may be used for increasing the protection of any existing building structure by being connected to the same via any conventional means.

The term ‘building construction’ refers hereinafter to any construction which comprises a building structure and a blast protecting unit or at least one of them.

The term ‘dimensions’ refers hereinafter to a measurement in length, width or height of a specific component of the present invention.

The term ‘module’ refers hereinafter to a quantity of one unit of the system the present invention.

The present invention discloses a blast protected unit which is configured to withstand blasts, and to protect any existing building structure.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 1 and 2, which schematically illustrate one embodiments of the present invention. The present invention discloses a blast protected unit 100 for blast protection. The blast protected unit 100 comprises a protecting panel 14 having a first side 7 and a second side 8. According to these figures, protecting panel 14 is connected to a sub-frame 16 which circumscribes the protecting panel 14. The connection of protecting panel 14 to sub-frame 16 is performed via a plurality of energy absorption units 30 (FIG. 2 a). Each of energy absorption units 30 has a first end 32 and a second end 34. The first end 32 of each of the energy absorption unit 30 is connected to protecting panel 14 via a connector 15, and second end 34 of each of the energy absorption units 30 is connected to sub-frame 16, such that the blast protected unit 100 is formed.

According to different embodiments of the present invention, blast protected unit 100 is adapted to be connected to building structure 10, such that a protection from blasts is provided to the internal portion 17 of building structure 10. As can be seen in FIG. 2 a, internal portion 17 is located at second side 8 of protecting panel 14.

When building structure 10 is attacked, blast protecting unit 100 is configured to protect the internal portion 17 of the same by absorbing at least part of the energy of the blast by energy absorption units 30. In this case, energy absorption units 30 are configured to deform under a blast force 5 applied against first side 7 of protecting panel 14, allowing the protecting panel to move away from and remain in proximity to sub-frame 16. During the deformation of energy absorption units 30, at least part of the energy of the blast is absorbed by energy absorbing units 30. This deformation might be a plastic deformation. According to another embodiment, this deformation might be elastic.

As illustrated in FIG. 2 a-b, energy absorption units 30 are positioned between panel 14 and the sub-frame 16 in a hidden manner so as to provide an appearance of a regular non-protected blast protected unit. The hidden manner is adapted to hide from external observers the capabilities of the blast protected unit to provide protection from blasts. This characteristic of the present invention may be very important for hiding the capabilities of a building structure to be protected from blasts, and to prevent unwanted attention of external observers towards the building structure.

According to different embodiments of the present invention, sub-frame 16 is connectable to building structure 10 via a screw means 11 or any fastening means. The connection of sub-frame 16 to building structure 10 is very simple and convenient so as to provide protection in a fast and effective manner.

According to the specific embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 1, panel 14 comprises at least one anti spall layer 40 and a ballistic layer 42. Anti spall layer 40 is adapted to prevent spalls from being projected into building structure 10 in case of a blast event. Ballistic layer 42 is adapted to provide ballistic protection to content within building struction 10. In the embodiment presented in FIGS. 1 and 2 a, anti spall layer 40 and ballistic layer 42 are connected to connector 15 and held by it.

According to different embodiments of the present invention, anti spall layer 40 may be made of any suitable high strength material which is able to prevent fragments of broken panel or of any other material (e.g., concrete, glass, etc.) from entering said building construction. The material might be for example: Kevlar®, Spectra®, Dyneema®, etc.

According to different embodiments of the present invention, ballistic layer 42 may be made of any material which is able to provide ballistic and anti-fragmentation protection. For example, ballistic layer 42 might be a ballistic plate (e.g., E-glass).

According to different embodiments of the present invention, panel 14 might be comprise a materials selected from a group consisting of: phenolic foam, Polyurea foam glass fibers, carbon fibers, aramid fibers, polyethylene fibers Polystyrene, plastic foam, rockwool, composite materials, a lightweight material that can be used for construction of prefabricated structures, or any combination thereof.

According to some embodiments, panel 14 are characterized by characteristics which are selected from a group consisting of: fluid isolating, moisture isolating, noise isolating, thermally isolating, fireproof, with ballistic protection properties, flexible, energy absorbing, lightweight, prefabricated, or any combination thereof.

According to different embodiments of the present invention, blast protected unit 100 may be connected to any building structure in order to protect its internal portion from blast events. The blast protected unit 100 may be connected to the external, to the internal or to an opening of any building structure. Moreover, blast protected unit 100 may be connected to the wall, the ceiling, or the floor of any building structure.

According to different embodiments, the building structure may be one of the following structures: a container, a caravan, manner a permanent structure with walls, a framework, an office, an industrial facility, a hotel, a residence, an embassy, and any combination thereof.

According to different embodiments of the present invention, the building structure to which the blast protected unit of the present invention may be connected is adapted to form a building construction which may provide protection from blasts and/or ballistic protection at any preselected location in which it is located (e.g., in enemy territory during a war). The portability characteristic of the present invention provides the user of the invention with the ability to isolate and protect any selected space, and is achieved by the unique lightweight and convenient design. For example, the building construction of the present invention may be used for protection of soldiers and commanders from blast events and ballistic attacks, when they are in a hostile environment in a preselected location. The construction of the building construction of the present invention can be done easily and in a fast manner as will be described below. The present invention may be, for example, used as a command post, communications post, storage facility, eating facility, operating theatre or clinic, sleeping quarters, dining quarters and in fact any structure that a military, police, paramilitary or civilian organization may require in a threatening environment.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 3-5 which illustrate a specific embodiment of a blast protected unit and a building structure of the present invention which form a building structure 200. According to these figures, building structure 200 comprises two main of elements of different types: (i) a building structure which is provided as a framework 50; and (ii) a plurality of blast protected units 100. The framework 50 has a plurality of shafts 55 mechanically connected to each other, such that a plurality of openings 60 is formed. Each of openings 60 is characterized by a predetermined size to which the blast protected unit of the present invention is fitted. According to this embodiment, each blast protected unit 100 may be placed and connected to its predefined opening 60 (As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5). In FIG. 3, framework 50 is illustrated without blast protected units connected to the same. As it is clearly illustrated in FIG. 3, blast protected units 100 may be used instead of the walls, the ceiling, or the floor of framework 50.

According to the embodiment of FIGS. 3-5, shafts 55 are perpendicular to each other, such that building structure 50 has a form of a rectangle box. According to other embodiments of the present invention, framework 50 may be has any geometrical form such as a polygonal, a circular, an elliptical, etc.

According to different embodiments of the present invention, the building structure and the blast protected units may be assembled and disassembled at any preselected location, and transported to different locations. For example, framework 50, may be transported separately to a preselected location, and the blast protected units 100 may be connected to it afterwards. This method may provide a blast protected building construction 200. According to the embodiment of FIGS. 4-5, the building structure is adapted to be protected with a plurality of the blast protected units. The blast protected units of this embodiment, may be used to replace the walls, the floor and the ceiling of building construction 200.

Reference is now made to FIG. 4 which schematically illustrates one embodiment of the present invention in which the building construction 200 of the present invention is configurable into two configurations: (i) a disassembled configuration 102 in which the building construction 200 is transportable; and, (ii) an assembled configuration 104 in which the building construction 200 is adapted to be assembled at a preselected location, and to provide protection to content within building structure 50.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, the framework 50 can be easily folded and unfolded. In the folded configuration of framework 50, shafts 55 are arranged to provide disassembled configuration 102 of the building construction in which the building structure and the blast protected units may be transported. In the unfolded configuration 104, shafts 55 are arranged to provide an assembled configuration 104.

According to the embodiment of FIG. 4, the blast protected unit 50 is also configurable into two configurations: (i) a disassembled configuration 102 in which the blast protected unit is transportable; and, (ii) an assembled configuration 104 in which the blast protected unit is connected to building structure 100, such that a building construction 200 is formed.

According to the specific embodiment of FIG. 4, building construction 200 of the present invention may be provided in disassembled configuration 102 in which it is in a compact packed form, especially a flat-pack. The building construction 200 of FIG. 4 is also a kit which may provide protection from blasts at any preselected location.

According to some embodiments of the present invention, at least some of shafts 55 are pivotally connected to each other. According to other embodiments of the present invention, the corners of the building structure (of framework 50) are rigid or hardened.

According to different embodiments of the present invention, blast protected unit 100 is stable to a blast impulse of between about 50 psi.msec to about 600 psi.msec. and blast pressures in excess of 1500 psi.

According to different embodiments of the present invention, energy absorption units 30 are configured to withstand multiple numbers of blasts. For example, part of the energy absorption units may be are adapted to withstand one blast, and another set of energy absorption units are adapted to withstand another blast which also might be more powerful.

The energy absorbing units of the present invention have been designed to withstand maximum load capacity. Any force in excess of that load will result in the EAU being sheared. The total amount of EAU units connected to each frame defines therefore the maximum load that can be transferred into the sub-frame of the present invention. If an increased force is applied than the energy absorbing units will fail and the panel will disconnect from the sub-frame.

This mechanism allow to design the structural resistance of the structural frame to the maximum design load capacity of the energy absorbing units, thus ensuring that in a blast event of exceeding loads, the sub-frame and the building structure will remain unharmed, and the panel might disconnect from the sub-frame and fly inwards the building structure. According to a specific embodiment of the present invention, the panel may disconnect from the sub-frame after one or more blast events. According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, the panel may disconnect from the sub-frame when a predetermined level of blast occurs, so as to prevent collapse or damage of the building structure itself.

It is within the scope of the present invention that blast protected unit 100 with the energy absorption units in a deformed state after a blast is replaceable so as to provide protection to the internal portion of the building structure from additional blasts. In other words, after a blast event which deforms the blast protecting unit, it can be easily replaced by new blast protecting unit. This replacement may be done just by mechanically connecting the sub-frame of the new blast protecting unit to the building structure (or the framework). According to different embodiments of the present invention, the blast protected unit of the present invention is able to provide rapid and reliable protection from blasts at any preselected location in which the building structure is located.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 5 a-d which illustrate specific embodiments of the building construction 200 of the present invention in its assembled configuration 104 from different points of view.

In FIG. 5 a, the building construction of the present invention is schematically illustrated from a side view. In this figure also presented a blast and ballistic resistant window, according to a specific embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 5 b, the building construction of the present invention is schematically illustrated from a side view of its narrow part. In this figure also presented a blast and ballistic resistant door, according to a specific embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 5 c, a cross-section the building construction of the present invention is schematically illustrated from an upper point of view.

In FIG. 5 d, a cross-section the building construction of the present invention is schematically illustrated from a side point of view.

The building construction 200 and/or blast protected unit 100 and/or building structure 50 may have characteristics of the present invention is characterized by its ability to be: relocateable, transportable, portable, permanent, fixed to a specific construction, modular, easy for construction by a layman, lightweight, modular, configurable into large building structures, blast protected, foldable, unfoldable, assembleable, disassembleable, or any combination thereof. The combination of these properties gives the present invention its novel and non-obvious advantages over the prior art. Embodiments of the invention are, in their assembled or disassembled configurations adapted for transporation by air, sea or land to and from the most hostile of environments.

For example, the building construction of the present invention might be deployed, constructed and assembled in any preselected location, by any personnel non-expert in the field of building construction (for example a squad of soldiers or paramilitary personnel not specializing in construction or engineering).

Other aspects of the present invention are its lightweight characteristics (opposed to a conventional building construction) and therefore ease of transportation to any needed location. The invention might be constructed on, within or adjacent to an existing building construction, and embodiments are provided such that individual modules of the invention may be used to construct a large building construction, made of number of singular building constructions connected to each other (as illustrated in FIG. 13).

The fact that the building construction of the present invention is easy for construction and is prefabricated makes it easy for use by a non-skilled person (a layman). For example, soldiers who are not skilled in construction of buildings, might be able easily and quickly construct a protect construction is any preselected location.

According to different embodiments of the present invention, blast protected unit 100 may protect the building structure and its interior from a factor selected from the group consisting of: wind, tornado, hurricane, earthquake, a weather related conditions, a ballistic attack, any pushing force, or any combination thereof.

According to some embodiments, the building structure 10 may comprise protecting windows, protecting doors, internal division to rooms, etc. These elements may be characterized by similar characteristics (e.g., energy absorption units) as the blast protected units of the present invention.

The building construction of the present invention may be stable to any expected and unexpected weather conditions such as: strong winds, rain, tornado, hurricanes, etc. The system of the present invention is also stable to earthquakes, or any other factors which might apply external forces on it.

According to some embodiments, the force applied against blast protected units 100 might be a force selected from a group consisting of: a force of a wind, a tornado generated force, a hurricane generated force, a force generated by an earthquake, a weather related force, any other pushing force, or any combination thereof. When at least one these force is applied on the system of the present invention, the energy absorption units might absorb the energy produced by these forces, and thereby, in some conditions, prevent damage to the building construction.

According to some embodiments of the present invention, the present invention discloses a method for rapidly deploying a building construction and protecting objects via the building construction in a theatre of operations. The method is adapted to provide protection from blasts to the objects located within the building construction in the theatre of operations.

According to some embodiments, the objects are selected from a group consisting of: military forces, police forces, soldiers, first-aid crew, press crew, military equipment, electronic equipment, or any combination thereof. According to some embodiments, the theatre of operations is selected from a group consisting of: a hostile environment, a battlefield, a city, a village, in a mountainous area, or any combination thereof. According to some embodiments, building construction is adapted to be deployed in the theatre of operations for providing protection to the forces in a time of between about 10 minutes and about two hours.

According to some embodiments, the building construction is provided to the theatre of operations from high altitude via transporting means selected from a group consisting of: an airplane, a jet plane, a helicopter, a crane, or any combination thereof.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 6-10 which schematically illustrate a specific embodiment of the present invention. In FIGS. 6-7, exemplary illustrated a building construction 300 before a blast event, and in FIGS. 8-10 exemplary illustrated a building construction 300 after a blast event.

According to FIG. 6, building structure 210 is connected to blast protected unit 220 via screw means 222. Blast protected unit 220 is constructed of protecting panel 215 which is connected to a non-continuous sub-frame 217 via energy absorbing units 216. According to this embodiment, building structure 210 is made of metal, and sub-frame 217 is made of aluminum profiles.

Reference in now made to FIG. 7, which exemplary illustrates building structure 210 with two blast protected units 220 to the same before a blast event.

Reference in now made to FIG. 8, which exemplary illustrates the fragment of building construction from FIG. 6, after being exposed to an experimental blast event. The experimental blast event which was performed by the inventors was performed with a blast impulse of about 150 psi.msec. In this experiment it was proved that the building construction is stable to this kind of blasts. In another experiments it was proved that the building construction of the present invention is stable to blasts with blast impulse of between about 50 psi.msec to about 600 psi.msec. and blast pressures in excess of 1500 psi.

As it can be seen in FIG. 8, energy absorbing units 216 are in their deformed configuration after a blast event and after absorbing at least part of the blast's energy. In this case, blast protected unit 220 can be easily replaced with a new blast protected unit so as to renew the protection to the interior of building structure 210. Additionally, in this figure it can be seen that panel 215 has moved to the internal side of building structure 210, and has stopped at a predetermined distance.

FIG. 9 also shows energy absorption units 216 are in their deformed state following a blast 30 event, as presented in FIG. 8 from another point of view. In this figure, it can also be clearly seen how the combination of a blast protected unit with a building structure form a building construction 300 which is protected from blasts.

FIG. 10 illustrates the interior portion of building construction 300. In this figure it can be clearly seen how the interior of the building construction is not harmed by the experimental blast event. Energy absorption units 216 in the figure are in their deformed state following the blast event. The blast protected units 220 can be easily replaced by connecting new blast protected units to building structure 210 so as to renew the protection the interior of the same.

FIG. 11 schematically illustrates a specific embodiment of building construction 400 of the present invention. In this figure, building construction 400 is provided in its assembled configuration. According to this specific embodiment, building construction 400 comprises two main types of elements: (i) blast protected units 320 which are connected to (ii) a building structure 310. It can be seen that building constriction 400 was easily assembled in a desert or any other location and by disassembling can also be transported to another location. The building constriction 400 of FIG. 11 looks like a standard non-protected building construction, but has characteristics which enable it to withstand blast events of up to about 50 psi.msec to about 600 psi.msec. and blast pressures in excess of 1500 psi.

FIG. 12 schematically illustrates a building construction 500 of the present invention with blast protected units 440 which are used as pre-detonating units. According to this embodiment, the blast protected units 440 may be connected to any building construction, such as building construction 400. The blast protected units 440 of FIG. 12 are configured to at least partially mitigate impact of a ballistic attack on building construction 500. Blast protected units 440 are connected to building structure 410 via connecting shaft 412 at a predetermined distance from the building structure 410. Furthermore, building structure 410 comprises blast protected units 420 which are adapted to provide protection as in the embodiments of FIG. 11. Blast protected units 440 can be used for example to cause mortar shells, rockets or propelled shaped charge weapons like RPG to explode before blast protected units 420 of building construction 500, and thereby at least partially mitigate damage of blast protected units 420. In this case, the blast which will take care at a predetermined distance from blast protected units 420, will cause blast protected units 420 and their energy absorption unit to absorb the energy of the blast and move the panels into the internal part of building structure 410. The Blast protected units 440 are optional, and can be added at any time during or after the construction of any building construction of the present invention. Moreover, a series of Blast protected units 440 (located at a predetermined distance from each other) may be added in order to improve to protection of the building construction of the present invention.

FIG. 13 schematically illustrates a large building construction 600. According to this figure, which illustrates a specific embodiment of the present invention, three building constructions 590 are interconnected to each other, so that the large building construction 600 is constructed. It can also been seen according to this figure, building construction 600 provides an ability to cross from one building construction 590 to another building construction 590. According the specific of FIG. 13, building construction 600 may be used as a hospital.

According to other embodiments, the building construction of the present invention might be interconnected with an existing conventional building construction. For example, the building construction of the present invention might be assembled on the roof of an existing building construction, or next to it.

In FIG. 13 also schematically illustrated blast protected units 580 which may be used to at least partially mitigate impact of a ballistic attack on the ceiling of building construction 600. The option of installing a pre-detonating panel of the above the ceiling of building construction 600 (of the roof of building construction 600) is adapted to cause indirect fire, like rockets or mortar shells to be detonated at a predetermined distance from the panels of the building construction, such that the results of said attack on the roof of said building construction are mitigated.

The present invention also discloses a method for constructing a blast protected building construction. The method comprises steps of:

-   -   a. providing a building structure having at least one opening;     -   b. providing at least one blast protected unit, comprising: (i)         a protecting panel having a first side and a second side; (ii) a         sub-frame adapted to circumscribe the protecting panel, the         sub-frame is adapted to be fitted to at least one of the         openings; and, (iii) a plurality of energy absorption units         adapted to connect the sub-frame to the protecting panel, each         of the energy absorption units having a first end and a second         end, the first end of each of the energy absorption units being         connectable to the protecting panel, and the second end of each         of the energy absorption units being connectable to the         sub-frame, such that the blast protected unit is formed; the         energy absorption units are configured to deform under a blast         force applied against the first side of the protecting panel,         allowing the protecting panel to move away from and remain in         proximity to the sub-frame;     -   c. placing the at least one blast protected unit within the at         least one opening; and,     -   d. connecting the at least one blast protected unit to the at         least one opening, thereby providing protection from blasts to         the internal portion of the building structure.

According to other embodiments of the present invention, the blast protected units of the present invention may be connected to each other without the need to use a building structure. According to these embodiments, the sub-frames of the blast protected units may be connected to each other, so as to provide a frameless structure. FIG. 14 schematically illustrates one embodiment of a frameless structure 900 in which blast protected units 810 are connected to each other without the need to use a framework or any other type of building structure. As can be seen in FIG. 14, a frameless structure may be easily constructed by connecting the blast protected units 810 to each other. This connected may be performed by connecting sub-frames 812 of blast protected units 810.

According to other embodiments of the present invention, the building construction of the present invention may also comprise at least one blast protecting system connected to the same. The blast protecting system is described below.

The present invention also discloses a blast protecting system for protection of an interior of a building structure. The blast protecting system comprises the following components:

-   -   a. First and second energy absorption units adapted to be         connected to the building structure.     -   b. A plurality of spaced elongated elements having a first and a         second end, each first end of the elongated elements is         mechanically connectable to the first energy absorption unit,         and each second end of the elongated elements is mechanically         connectable to the second energy absorption unit.     -   c. At least one protecting layer mechanically connectable to the         first and the second energy absorption units.

The energy absorption units of the blast protecting system are configured to be deformed under a force applied against the elongated elements and the at least one protecting layer, such that the energy created by a blast is at least partially absorbed by the energy absorption units via the elongated elements.

The present invention discloses a blast protecting system 700 which is adapted to provide protection from blasts and ballistic protection to an interior of any existing building structure such as building structure 605. The blast protecting system of the present invention may be used for retrofitting existing walls, or other elements of any building structure. It might also be installed in any opening of any building structure. The present invention is characterized by portability and very easy for use (e.g., for installation). Moreover, the blast protecting system can be exploited for multi-uses by removing it from one place and installing in another one. The fact that the system of the present invention is easy for installation and is prefabricated makes it easy for use by a non-skilled person. For example, soldiers who are not skilled in the field of protecting systems, may easily and quickly protect any existing building structure in any location.

The main novel characteristic of the present invention is not only its ability to withstand very massive blast events (e.g., 600 psi.msec.), but its adaptability to various dimensions of walls and other locations in which the system is installed. For example, the same system can be used to cover a wall of 2 meter height, and also for another wall of 3 meter height. This is achieved by the ability of the system to be adjusted to various dimensions.

The present invention provides the user of the invention with the ability to isolate and protect any selected existing building structure, and is achieved by the unique lightweight, reliable, strong and convenient design. For example, the blast protecting system may be used for protection of soldiers and commanders from blast events and ballistic attacks, when they are located in a closed structure in a hostile environment.

The method for use of the blast protecting system of the present invention can be done easily and in a fast manner, as will be described below.

The present invention may be, for example, used as a command post, communications post, storage facility, eating facility, operating theatre or clinic, sleeping quarters, dining quarters and in fact any structure that a military, police, paramilitary or civilian organization may require in a threatening environment.

Reference is now made to FIG. 15, which schematically illustrates a specific embodiment of the blast protecting system 700 of the present invention. Blast protecting system 700 which is illustrated in this figure is adapted to provide protection to the interior of building structure 605 (e.g., a room, a building construction, a lodge, a house, a cabin, a caravan, a vehicle, etc.). For example, the system may protect the interior of structure 605 from spalls and pieces of wall 607 being projected after a blast event.

The system illustrated in FIG. 15 is constructed of a first energy absorption unit 610, and a second energy absorption unit 611 which are mechanically connected to ceiling 608 and floor 609 of building structure 605, respectively.

According to a specific embodiment of the present invention, the connection of first and second energy absorption units 610 and 611 to structure 605, may be performed via screw means, or any other conventional connecting means.

The first energy absorption unit 610 and the second energy absorption unit 611 are interconnected by a plurality of spaced elongated elements 620. According to the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 15, elongated elements 620 are substantially parallel to each other.

Each elongated elements 620 is having a first end 621 and a second end 622. Each first end 621 of elongated elements 620 is mechanically connected to first energy absorption unit 610, and each second end 622 of elongated elements 620 is mechanically connected to second energy absorption unit 611.

The first energy absorption unit 610 and the second energy absorption unit 611 are also interconnected by at least one protecting layer. According to the specific embodiment of FIG. 15, the protecting layer 630 is an anti-spall layer. The anti-spall layer is adapted to prevent spalls from being projected into the interior of building structure 605 in case of a blast event.

According to other embodiments of the present invention, protecting layer 630 may additionally comprise a ballistic layer adapted to provide ballistic protection to the content within structure 605. In a specific embodiment, the ballistic layer may be used additionally to the anti-spall layer.

According to other embodiments of the present invention, protecting layer 630 might be a protecting panel or may comprise a protecting panel. This panel may be made of materials selected from a group consisting of: phenolic foam, Polyurea foam fabric, glass fibers, carbon fibers, aramid fibers, polyethylene fibers, Polystyrene, plastic foam, rockwool, composite materials, a lightweight material that can be used for construction of prefabricated structures, or any combination thereof.

According to some embodiment, protecting layer 630 may be made of materials characterized by a characteristic selected from a group consisting of: fluid isolating, moisture isolating, noise isolating, thermally isolating, fireproof, with ballistic protection properties, flexible, energy absorbing, lightweight, prefabricated, variable stiffness, resilient, translucent, or any combination thereof. When a translucent protecting layer is used, the system of the present invention can provide a transfer of a day light into the structure. This might be important when the system is installed in front of a window. In this case, a day light may enter into the structure.

According to some embodiments, wall 607 may be additionally coated with trowel 632 adapted to strengthen this wall.

The first and the second energy absorption units 610 and 611 illustrated in FIG. 15 are constructed of an array of energy absorption sub-units 612 located between a first connecting profile 617 and a second connecting profile 618. The first connecting profile 617 interconnects energy absorption sub-units 612 with elongated elements 620 and protecting layer 630. The second connecting profile 618 interconnects energy absorption sub-units 612 with building structure 605.

The mechanism according to which the system of the present invention protects structure 605 from blasts is the following: in case of a blast event, first and second energy absorption units 610 and 611 are configured to be deformed under the force applied against elongated elements 620 and protecting layer 630, such that the energy created by a blast event is at least partially absorbed by energy absorption units 610 and 611 and at least partially by elongated elements 620. More specifically, elongated elements 620 absorb most of the energy applied on them by the blast, and transmit said energy to energy absorption units 610 and 611. According to a specific embodiment, energy absorption units 610 and 611 are plastically deformable by being bent and/or elongated as a result of the blast event. According to other embodiments, energy absorption units might be configured to withstand multiple numbers of blasts.

The main advantage of the present invention over the prior art, is not only its ability to withstand very energetic blast events, but also its ability to be fitted to any existing wall. This is achieved by the ability of the elongated elements 620 and protecting layer 630 to be dimensionally adjustable. In other words, system 700 can stretched/unfolded/extended to variable dimensions in order to cover a specific area of a wall in order to provide a retrofitted wall. According to some embodiments, the variable dimensions of the system are the distance between first and second energy absorption units 610 and 611. This distance typically might be between about 100 cm to about 10 meter.

As can be seen in FIG. 16, system 700 is installed in front of and substantially adjacent to wall 605, and is fitted to the entire height of said wall. According to other embodiments, the system of the present invention might be dimensionally adjustable to be fitted to the dimensions of at least a part of a wall.

In order to retrofit an entire wide wall, a plurality of blast protecting systems (modules of the system) may be installed, one adjacent to the other, while their height is fitted to the height of said wall. For example, if the width of a wall is 9 meter, and the width of each module 2 meter, in this case four modules will be installed one adjacent to the other, and the width of the fifth module will be shortened to half and placed adjacent to the rest modules.

According to FIG. 17, elongated elements 620 are steel cables. According to other embodiments, the elongated members can be: rods, pipes, bars, mesh, shafts, sticks, cords, ropes, string, wires, threads, cables, etc.

The dimensions of elongated elements of FIG. 17 are adjustable by their telescopic characteristic. This means that the length of elongated elements 620 is expandable when they are pulled from their one side, and at the same time held from the other side. According to other embodiments, the length of elongated members 620 might be changes by their other characteristic such as: elongatability, stretchability, extendibility, extendibility, inelasticity, ability to be enlarged, varying length, etc. For example, the length of the elongated element might be adjusted by stretching the elongated elements, and cutting their unneeded residue.

The dimensions of protecting layer 630 are adjustable by characteristics selected from a group consisting of: elongatability, stretchability, elasticity, extendibility, enlargability, ability to spread out when provided in a rolled condition, cutting, slicing, or any combination thereof. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the length of protecting layer 630 is adjustable when protecting layer 630 is provided in a rolled condition at one of its end located in proximity to one of the energy absorption units. Following the adjustment of the length protecting layer 630, the final length which was set by the user is fixed by fixing means (e.g., clip, clamp, fastener, stapler, slot, abutment, etc.).

According to different embodiments of the present invention, system 700 may have at least one of the following characteristics: relocateable, transportable, portable, fixed to said construction, modular, ease of installation, kit-like, provided in a rolled kit, replaceable, upgradable, expandable, rapidly deployable, easy for installation by a layman, lightweight, blast protected, blast and ballistic protected, with decorative finish, or any combination thereof.

According to different embodiments of the present invention, the force applied against the elongated elements and the at least one protecting layer is at least partially selected from a group consisting of: a force of a wind, a tornado generated force, a hurricane generated force, a force generated by an earthquake, a weather related force, any other pushing force, or any combination thereof.

According to some embodiments, the present invention discloses a method for rapidly deploying and protecting objects within a building structure in a theatre of operations via a blast protecting kit. The kit is adapted to provide protection from blasts to the objects located within the structure in the theatre of operations. According to some embodiment, the kit is adapted to be deployed in the theatre of operations for providing protection to the objects in a time of between about 10 minutes and about two hours.

According to some embodiment, the objects are selected from a group consisting of military forces, police forces, soldiers, first-aid crew, press crew, military equipment, electronic equipment, or any combination thereof. According to some embodiment, the theatre of operations is selected from a group consisting of: a hostile environment, a battlefield, a city, a village, in a mountainous area, oil rigs, oil rigs, or any combination thereof. According to some embodiment, the kit is provided to the theatre of operations from high altitude via transporting means selected from a group consisting of: an airplane, a jet plane, a helicopter, a crane, or any combination thereof.

Reference is now made to FIG. 17, which schematically illustrates a side view of the blast protection system 700 of the present invention. Blast protection system 700 illustrated in this figure is adjacent to wall 607 of building structure 605, such that in case of a blast event, spalls of said wall are prevented to penetrate into the interior of structure 605.

In FIG. 16 illustrated first and second energy absorption units 610 and 611 interconnected via elongated elements 620, and with protecting layer 630 located therebetween. As illustrated in this figure, second energy absorption unit 611 is connected elongated elements 620 via first connecting profile 617, and to the floor 609 of building structure 605 via second connecting profile 618. According to the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 16, first energy absorption unit 610 is also constructed from first and second connecting profiles (not shown) adapted to connect first energy absorption unit 610 to ceiling 608 and elongated elements 620.

Reference is now made to FIG. 16, which schematically illustrates a top view of the blast protection system 700 of the present invention. System 700 illustrated in this figure is adjacent to wall 607 of building structure 605, such that in case of a blast event, spalls of said wall are prevented to penetrate into the interior of building structure 605. FIG. 16 illustrates a top view of elongated elements 620 with protecting layer 630.

Reference in now made to FIG. 18, which exemplary illustrates a specific embodiment of system 800 of the present invention which was installed within structure 705. The system 800 illustrated in this figure was exposed to an experimental blast event. The experimental blast event which was performed by the inventors was performed with a blast impulse of about 1000 psi.msec. In this experiment it was proved that the blast protecting system 800 of the present invention is stable to this kind of blast. In other experiments it was proved that the building construction of the present invention is stable to blasts with wide range of blast impulse of between about 50 psi and about 1800 psi.msec. It is important to emphasize that in the prior art there are no systems which are able to withstand blasts of this scope and strength.

According to FIG. 18, first and second energy absorption units 710 and 711 interconnected via elongated elements 720, and with protecting layer 730 located therebetween.

The first and the second energy absorption units 710 and 711 illustrated in FIG. 18 are constructed of an array of energy absorption sub-units 712 located between a first connecting 15 profile 717 and a second connecting profile 718. The first connecting profile 717 interconnects energy absorption sub-units 712 with elongated elements 720 and protecting layer 730. The second connecting profile 718 interconnects energy absorption sub-units 712 with structure 705.

The length of elongated elements 720 and the length of protecting layer 730 presented in FIG. 20 18 is adjusted to high D structure 705. The length of elongated elements 720 is adjusted by their telescopic enlargement, and the length of protecting layer 730 is adjusted by cutting said protecting layer to the needed dimensions. The protecting layer 730 of FIG. 18 is an anti spall layer combined with a ballistic layer.

Reference is now made to FIG. 19, which schematically illustrates structure 705 from its exterior side. The blast protecting system of the present invention is installed behind wall 707, and the source of the blast is located in front of wall 707 (not shown).

Reference is now made to FIG. 20, which illustrates the blast protecting system 800 of FIG. 18, after a blast event creating a reflected impulse of 600 psi.msec. It can be seen in this figure that system successfully prevented damage within structure 705. The energy of the blast has been absorbed in elongated elements 720 which transferred part of the energy to energy absorbing sub-units 712 of energy absorbing units 710 and 711. According to FIG. 18, as a result of the blast, elongated elements 720 are bent, and energy absorbing sub-units 712 are plastically deformed (bent and stretched).

Reference is now made to FIG. 21, which illustrates structure 707 from its exterior side (from FIG. 21), after a blast event. In this figure presented spalls and pieces of broken wall 705, and system 800 (from FIG. 21) from its exterior side. As can be seen in this figure, the spalls and pieces of broken wall 705 were prevented from penetrating into the interior of structure 705.

According to different embodiments of the present invention, any building structure may be protected with at least one blast protecting unit and/or blast protecting system according to the different embodiment described above. For example, a plurality of blast protecting units may be used as the walls of the building structure, and the blast protecting systems may be installed in the interior of the building structure.

Experimental Results:

The blast protecting unit connected to a building structure (of FIGS. 1-13) has been tested in a few experiments. The results of the experiments are the following:

1. An explosive of 3250 lbs TNT at a Standoff of 230 feet

Full scale high explosive blast testing against the building structure with a blast protecting unit has provided the following results:

Reflected Pressure: 12.5 psi

Reflected Impulse: 93.79 psi.msec.

Interior Pressure: 1.69 psi

2. An explosive of 3250 lbs TNT (Equivalent) at a Standoff of 183 feet

Full scale high explosive blast testing against the building structure with a blast protecting unit has provided the following results:

Calculated Reflected pressure: 14.83 psi

Calculated Reflected Impulse: 209.1 psi.msec.

Free Field Pressure: 6.61 psi

3. An explosive of 13.23 lbs TNT at a Standoff of 4.6 feet

The test provided a replication of both 120 mm Mortar and 107 mm Rocket threats, against a frameless structure has provided the following results:

Reflected Blast Pressure: 1512 psi

Calculated reflected pressure: 209 psi.msec.

The building construction of the present invention has undergone full scale explosive and ballistic testing for the following baseline performance: 

1.-177. (canceled)
 178. A blast protected unit for blast protection, said blast protected unit comprising: a. a protecting panel having a first side and a second side; b. a sub-frame adapted to circumscribe said protecting panel; and c. a plurality of energy absorption units adapted to connect said sub-frame to said protecting panel, each of said energy absorption units having a first end and a second end, said first end of each of said energy absorption units being connectable to said protecting panel, and said second end of each of said energy absorption units being connectable to said sub-frame, such that said blast protected unit is formed; said energy absorption units are configured to deform under a blast force applied against said first side of said protecting panel, allowing said protecting panel to move away from and remain in proximity to said sub-frame; said blast protected unit is adapted to be connected to a building structure, such that a protection from blasts is provided to the internal portion of said building structure, said internal portion is located at said second side of said protecting panel; wherein said protecting panel is multi-layer and comprises at least one ballistic layer adapted to provide ballistic protection within said protected unit and at least one anti spall layer adapted to prevent spalls from being projected into said protected unit in case of a blast.
 179. The blast protected unit of claim 178, wherein said building structure is a framework having a plurality of shafts mechanically connected to each other such that at least one opening is formed, said blast protected unit is adapted to be fitted, placed and connected to said at least one opening.
 180. The blast protected unit of claim 178, wherein said blast protected unit is adapted to replace a wall, a ceiling, or a floor of said building structure or said framework.
 181. The blast protected unit of claim 179, wherein said framework is configurable into two configurations: (i) a folded configuration in which said framework is transportable; and (ii) an unfolded configuration in which said framework is arranged in an operative position.
 182. The blast protected unit of claim 178, wherein said blast protected unit with said energy absorption units in a deformed state after a blast is replaceable so as to provide protection to the internal portion of said building structure from additional blasts.
 183. The blast protected unit of claim 178, wherein said blast protected unit is adapted to provide protection from blasts at any preselected location in which said building structure is located.
 184. The blast protected unit of claim 178, wherein said energy absorption units are adapted to be positioned between said panel and said sub-frame in a hidden manner so as to provide an appearance of a regular non-protected blast protected unit.
 185. The blast protected unit of claim 184, wherein said hidden manner is adapted to hide from external observers the capabilities of said blast protected unit to provide protection from blasts.
 186. The blast protected unit of claim 178, wherein said blast protected unit is configurable into at least two configurations: (i) a disassembled configuration in which said blast protected unit is transportable; and, (ii) an assembled configuration in which said blast protected unit is connected to said building structure.
 187. The blast protected unit of claim 178, wherein said building structure is adapted to be protected with a plurality of said blast protected units.
 188. The blast protected unit of claim 178, wherein said sub-frame is adapted to hold said anti spall layer or said ballistic layer.
 189. The blast protected unit of claims 178, wherein said sub-frame is connectable to said building structure via a screw means or any fastening means.
 190. The blast protected unit of claim 178, wherein said blast protected unit is connectable to the wall, the ceiling, or the floor of said building structure.
 191. The blast protected unit of claim 178, wherein said blast protected unit is connectable to at least one another blast protected unit so as to provide a frameless structure, the connection between said blast protected units is provided by mechanical connection of the sub-frames of said blast protected units to each other.
 192. The blast protected unit of claim 178, wherein said blast protected unit is stable to a blast impulse of between about 50 psi.msec to about 600 psi.msec. and blast pressures in excess of 1500 psi.
 193. The blast protected unit of claim 178, wherein said energy absorption units are configured to withstand multiple numbers of blasts.
 194. The blast protected unit of claim 178, wherein said blast protected unit is adapted to be used as a pre-detonating unit adapted to at least partially mitigate impact of a ballistic attack on said building structure, said blast protected unit is connectable to said building structure via at least one connecting shaft at a predetermined distance from said building structure.
 195. The blast protected unit of claim 178, wherein said panel is adapted to be disconnected from said sub-frame when a predetermined level of blast occurs, so as to prevent collapse or damage of said building structure.
 196. The blast protected unit of claim 178, wherein said building construction further comprises at least blast protecting system connected to the same.
 197. The blast protected unit of claim 178, wherein said blast protected unit is adapted to be connected to an external portion or an opening of the building structure. 